Name: Classic American Potato Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pounds red potatoes; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons yellow mustard; 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped; 2 stalks celery, diced; 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/3 cup dill pickles, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Creamy, tangy, and loaded with flavor, this Classic American Potato Salad is a nostalgic dish that never goes out of style. It’s the kind of salad that shows up at every summer barbecue, family reunion, and picnic because it pairs beautifully with grilled meats and has that comforting, homey taste everyone loves.

Chunks of tender red potatoes are tossed in a rich dressing made from mayonnaise, mustard, chopped dill pickles, and fresh herbs. Red onions and celery add crunch, while chopped boiled eggs bring a savory richness. It’s perfectly chilled and seasoned, making it an irresistible side that vanishes fast!

Why You’ll Love This Classic American Potato Salad

Timeless Comfort: A beloved staple that hits all the right creamy, tangy, and savory notes.
Easy to Customize: Add more eggs, pickles, or a dash of smoked paprika to suit your style.
Perfect for Gatherings: Made for sharing—feeds a crowd and holds well when chilled.
Balanced Texture: Creamy dressing meets tender potatoes and crisp veggies in every bite.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving in, a bit of prep work will ensure this potato salad turns out perfect. Here are the essential tools and why each one matters:

Large Pot: For boiling the potatoes evenly. Choose one that gives them enough room to simmer without overcrowding.
Colander: To drain and cool the potatoes quickly, helping them hold their shape.
Mixing Bowls: Use one for the dressing and one for combining everything to ensure even coating.
Knife and Cutting Board: Precision dicing is key for uniform bites of celery, onion, pickles, and eggs.
Rubber Spatula: Gentle on potatoes while mixing, preventing them from breaking apart.

Ingredients for the Classic American Potato Salad

Red Potatoes: Their waxy texture helps them stay firm after boiling, perfect for holding the dressing.
Mayonnaise: The creamy base that binds everything together.
Yellow Mustard: Adds tanginess and a bit of sharpness to balance the richness.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: Provide extra creaminess and a classic flavor boost.
Celery: Gives a fresh crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft potatoes.
Red Onion: Adds a mild bite and lovely color to the mix.
Dill Pickles: Brings acidity and briny depth to the salad.
Fresh Dill: Infuses the dish with vibrant, herby flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer.
Smoked Paprika (optional): For a warm, smoky finish on top.

How To Make the Classic American Potato Salad

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Scrub and cube your red potatoes, then boil them in salted water until fork-tender but not mushy—about 10–12 minutes. Drain and let them cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yellow mustard, chopped dill pickles, fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 3: Chop the Add-ins

Dice your celery, red onion, and hard-boiled eggs. Keep them uniform so every bite is balanced.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, gently fold the cooled potatoes with the dressing, chopped veggies, and eggs using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to mash the potatoes.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour (or up to a day). This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle the top with extra dill, sliced green onions, or a dash of smoked paprika before serving.

Serving & Storing This Classic American Potato Salad

Serving Tips: This salad is best served chilled, straight from the fridge. It’s a fantastic pairing with grilled burgers, hot dogs, fried chicken, or BBQ ribs. Garnish just before serving for a fresh, vibrant look.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the night before your event to save time and enhance flavor.

Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing. Avoid freezing, as the mayo-based dressing will separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I boil the potatoes?

Boil them just until fork-tender, usually 10–12 minutes. Overcooking leads to a mushy salad.

Can I use another type of potato?

Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes also work well thanks to their creamy texture. Avoid russets—they fall apart easily.

Is it okay to skip the eggs?

Definitely! While traditional, eggs are optional. You can leave them out or swap them for more celery or pickles.

What if I don’t like mayonnaise?

You can substitute part of it with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter version, or use all mustard-based dressing for a tangier twist.

How far in advance can I make this?

You can make it up to 24 hours in advance. Just give it a gentle mix before serving and refresh the garnish.

Can I add bacon or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Crispy bacon bits, chives, or even shredded cheddar can elevate the classic flavors.

Want More Salad Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Classic American Potato Salad, you’ll probably enjoy these other fresh and flavorful recipes:

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